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Background Low-grade gliomas (LGG) are among the most frequently occurring tumors in adolescent and young adult (AYA) patients (aged 18–39 years old at primary diagnosis). These tumors have a variable prognosis, presenting challenges for patients in shaping their future. This study aimed to identify the age-specific experiences and needs of AYA patients with LGG in their daily lives. Methods In-depth interviews were conducted with AYA patients diagnosed with LGG. Thematic analysis was performed to derive the age-specific codes, looking for overarching themes and sub-themes. Results Sixteen patients participated in this study. The cognitive symptoms of the disease (including difficulty concentrating, memory issues, and speech problems) are invisible to others but caused significant disruptions in many domains that were particularly important to AYA patients (eg, employment, family life, and autonomy). Additionally, the uncertainty regarding their life expectancy led to difficulties in making decisions about the future. They also perceived a lack of control over their future and the time they had left. Conclusions LGG have a significant impact on AYA patients. However, this impact is not fully understood by others close to them. The results highlight the importance of providing these patients with appropriate peer support, interventions tailored to both their disease and life phase, utilizing a multidisciplinary approach, and maintaining a focus on long-term support for these patients. It is crucial to provide AYA care for these patients within the neurology department, as LGG involve both tumor- and age-specific problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background It has been suggested that lack of ongoing registration of patient-centered outcomes has resulted in existing care trajectories that have not been optimized for sequelae experienced by meningioma patients. This study aimed to evaluate the structure of current meningioma care and identify issues and potential high-impact improvement initiatives. Methods Using the grounded theory approach, a thematic framework was constructed based on the Dutch Comprehensive Cancer Organisation survey about issues in meningioma care trajectories. This framework was used during 3 semistructured interviews and 2 focus groups with patient-partner dyads (n = 16 participants), and 2 focus groups with health care providers (n = 11 participants) to assess issues in current meningioma care trajectories and possible solutions, including barriers to and facilitators for implementation. Results Identified issues (n = 18 issues) were categorized into 3 themes: availability and provision of information, care and support, and screening for (neurocognitive) rehabilitation. A lack of information about the intervention and possible outcomes or complications, lack of support after treatment focusing on bodily and psychological functions, and reintegration into society were considered most important. Sixteen solutions were suggested, such as appointment of case managers (solution for 11/18 issues, 61%), assessment and treatment by physiatrists (22%), and routine use of patient-reported outcome measures for patient monitoring (17%). Barriers for these solutions were lack of budget, capacity, technology infrastructure, and qualified personnel with knowledge about issues experienced by meningioma patients. Conclusions This study identified issues in current multidisciplinary meningioma care that are considered unmet needs by patients, partners, and health care providers and could guide innovation of care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Women represent an increasing proportion of the overall workforce in medicine but are underrepresented in leadership roles. Methods To explore gender inequalities and challenges in career opportunities, a web-based survey was conducted among the membership of the European Association of Neuro-Oncology and the Brain Tumor Group of the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer. Results A total of 228 colleagues responded to the survey: 129 women (median age 45 years; range, 25-66 years) and 99 men (median age 48 years; range, 24-81 years); 153 participants (67%) were married and 157 participants (69%) had at least 1 child. Women less often declared being married (60% vs 77%, P =.007) or having a child (63% vs 77%, P =.024). Men more frequently had a full-time position (88% vs 75%, P =.036). Women and men both perceived an underrepresentation of women in leadership positions. Half of participants agreed that the most important challenges for women are leading a team and obtaining a faculty position. Fewer women than men would accept such a position (42% vs 56%). The main reasons were limited time for career and an inappropriate work and life balance. Women specifically cited negative discrimination, limited opportunities, and lack of self-confidence. Discrimination of women at work was perceived by 64% of women vs 47% of men (P =.003). Conclusion Women are perceived as experiencing more difficulties in acquiring a leadership position. Personal preferences may account for an underrepresentation of women in leadership positions, but perceived gender inequalities extend beyond disparities of access to leadership. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]